June 13, 2013, Victoria, BC (ISN) – A new crop of riders are set to pedal 700 kilometers for seven days starting in Kamloops August 8th and finishing in Keremeos August 14th for the 2nd Annual ALS Cycle of Hope.

This year’s Awareness Journey will be more demanding physically but will also feature riders who have been directly affected by ALS through family and friends.

Jack Knox takes the podium – Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

Cindy Lister talks about how ALS has affected her life – Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

“I’m so excited to build on what we accomplished last year by growing the size of the team and the scope of this year’s event”, said Cindy Lister the inspiration behind the Cycle of Hope. “Last year was about riding for my Dad and starting this journey. This year it’s about spreading the awareness further with each of these riders sharing their stories and those of every community we ride through.”

In addition to the Awareness Journey, this year the public can join one of two community rides in Kelowna on August 11th; a 30 or a 70-kilometer loop or join a virtual ride on-line (www.cycleofhope.ca) where riders can track their mileage and raise support for ALS in their own community.

Bikers prepare to ride through the ‘bridge of hope’– Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

Victoria Mayor Dean Fortin launched the event at the Trek store by taking part in the “Bridge of Hope”. Supporters joined hands as the cyclists were ushered through the bridge to wish them well and send them on their way. “I was here last year for the initial launch of the ALS Cycle of Hope and was honoured to be a part of this journey. With a bigger team and bigger event, I hope that we can continue to raise the funds and awareness for ALS throughout Victoria and all communities in British Columbia.”

The first rider appears at the other end of the bridge of hope – Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

A few participants in wheelchairs help in building the bridge of hope – Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

Several advocates and families affected by ALS were in attendance to share their experiences and to speak about the disease. “Third-party fundraising events coordinated by volunteers to benefit the cause are very important to raising awareness and funds for people living with ALS,” said Wendy Toyer, Executive Director of the ALS Society of BC. “Cindy’s passion for the Cycle of Hope is inspirational. Her volunteerism, energy and leadership are exemplary.”

This group sees the corn flower as a symbol of strength – Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

The riders line up for a photo– Photo by Kasey Eriksen (ISN)

The riders are holding several fundraising events and opportunities prior to their departure including an on-line auction with a signed jersey from every member of the San Jose Sharks, Pink tickets and a side of beef from Island Farms. Auction items are available for viewing at www.gobid.com. Other fundraising opportunities include dropping off your bottles and cans to the following Bottle Depots: 4261 Glanford Avenue, 3961 Quadra Street and 655 Queens Avenue during the month of June.